A State of Mind (2005)

Hate Games

By Jeffrey M. Anderson

The new documentary A State of Mind follows two North Korean schoolgirls who practice gymnastics for hours each day in preparation for the enormous spectacle called "Mass Games," and a chance to perform in front of Kim Jong-Il. Though the movie's interviewees are open about their blind hatred of Americans, the film is carefully constructed so that Western viewers can get a look at North Korea's individual faces rather than one big, evil empire. Reading between the lines is recommended -- and essential -- during viewing.